10 Scenic Drives in St. Thomas You Can’t Miss Best Explored by Rental Car

St. Thomas, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture, offers a wealth of scenic beauty waiting to be discovered. While the island is known for its breathtaking beaches, the true charm lies in exploring its winding roads, panoramic vistas, and hidden corners—places that are best accessed with your own rental car.

From soaring hilltops to coastal cliffs, St. Thomas' scenic drives are not only a feast for the eyes but also an unforgettable experience for those willing to venture off the beaten path. In this guide, we’ll explore 10 of the most scenic drives that are best explored with a car rental St Thomas airport pick-up or a Rent a Car St Thomas option.

So, whether you’re on the hunt for breathtaking views, secluded beaches, or charming local spots, grab your keys and start your adventure today!

1. Crown Mountain Road

Why It’s Worth It: One of the most iconic drives in St. Thomas, Crown Mountain Road leads you to one of the highest points on the island, providing sweeping views of the surrounding ocean and nearby islands. As you ascend the mountain, you’ll pass through lush tropical foliage and experience the cool breeze from higher altitudes.

What to Expect: A winding, uphill route that gives you unparalleled vistas of Charlotte Amalie and the harbor. A Jeep rental near me is ideal for this drive, as the terrain can be bumpy and rugged in places.

2. Northside Road (Route 30)

Why It’s Worth It: This scenic drive offers spectacular views of the North Shore of St. Thomas, with panoramic views of Hans Lollik Island and the turquoise waters below. The lush landscape of the island's north shore contrasts beautifully with the deep blue of the Caribbean Sea.

What to Expect: The road is relatively well-paved, but its winding turns and cliffs make it an exciting drive. Stopping for photos at scenic overlooks is a must!

3. Water Island Road

Why It’s Worth It: To explore Water Island—the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands—this drive offers an opportunity to discover one of the most secluded and untouched parts of St. Thomas. The area is known for its quiet streets, pristine beaches, and charming local atmosphere.

What to Expect: You’ll take a short ferry ride from St. Thomas to Water Island, but once there, the roads are easy to navigate. The Jeep rentals are a great choice for exploring this less-developed area.

4. Magens Bay Road

Why It’s Worth It: This picturesque drive leads you to one of the most famous beaches in St. Thomas, Magens Bay. With its calm, crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the tropical surroundings.

What to Expect: The drive is relatively short but offers stunning coastal views along the way. Car rental St Thomas options will easily get you there in comfort, and the drive itself is a great way to kickstart your beach day.

5. Frenchman’s Bay Drive

Why It’s Worth It: This scenic route takes you through local neighborhoods, charming streets, and offers breathtaking coastal views. Frenchman’s Bay is also home to several secluded beaches and spots perfect for a relaxing day away from the crowd.

What to Expect: Narrow roads and winding curves, but the beauty of the route makes it well worth the drive. If you're up for a scenic stop, consider visiting Frenchman’s Reef for an unbeatable panorama.

6. Sapphire Bay Road

Why It’s Worth It: Sapphire Beach, located on the east end of St. Thomas, is a beautiful, quiet beach with clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere. The drive to Sapphire Beach offers an excellent view of the surrounding coastline, as well as a chance to pass through local neighborhoods and experience the natural side of the island.

What to Expect: The road is smooth but narrow, and having a Jeep rental St Thomas will ensure a comfortable and secure ride as you navigate through residential areas.

7. Smith Bay Road

Why It’s Worth It: Another gem of St. Thomas, Smith Bay Road takes you to the stunning Secret Harbour Beach. This drive offers beautiful scenery, including views of the bay and surrounding hills.

What to Expect: Expect a quiet, peaceful drive through lush vegetation, with easy access to one of St. Thomas’ best-kept secrets. A Jeep rental near me or a small SUV would be perfect for this route.

8. Red Hook to Coral Bay Road

Why It’s Worth It: This route offers some of the best opportunities for exploration. As you drive through the island’s rugged interior, you'll experience both coastal and mountain views. It’s a perfect way to reach some of the more secluded spots in the Virgin Islands, including Coral Bay, which has a laid-back, local atmosphere.

What to Expect: Steep hills, winding roads, and jaw-dropping views. If you’re planning a trip to Coral Bay, a car rental St Thomas ensures you'll have a stress-free journey through the island’s natural beauty.

9. Route 40: Mountain Top Scenic Drive

Why It’s Worth It: This drive takes you all the way up to the island's highest point, Mountain Top. The views from here are unbeatable, offering a panoramic view of St. Thomas, the surrounding islands, and the sparkling Caribbean Sea.

What to Expect: Winding mountain roads can be challenging, but driving to the top rewards you with stunning views. A Jeep rental St Thomas airport vehicle would be ideal to handle the terrain.

10. East End Scenic Route

Why It’s Worth It: The East End of St. Thomas offers a mix of rugged coastline, quiet coves, and vibrant greenery. This drive takes you through small communities and along the coastline, offering glimpses of the Caribbean’s tropical beauty.

What to Expect: Perfect for those looking for a more relaxed ride, the East End offers gentle roads and plenty of opportunities for picturesque stops. A Jeep rentals option will give you the freedom to explore and stop as you please.

Final Thoughts

Renting a car on St. Thomas isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about unlocking the island’s hidden gems, stunning views, and secluded beaches that are far off the beaten path. From winding mountain roads to serene coastal routes, having a car gives you the freedom to explore St. Thomas like never before.

Whether you choose a car rental St Thomas airport option for the flexibility to roam freely or opt for a Jeep rental St Thomas airport for the rugged beauty of island roads, each drive offers its own unique experience. So go ahead, embrace the adventure and see what the island has in store for you!

NAP Information

First Rent A Car
8269A, Bournefield, St Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Island
Phone: +1 (340) 776-3730